A root canal is a type of dental treatment that excises rotten nerve tissue from within a tooth. This treatment has the potential to save a patient from excessive suffering and pain despite the fact many people mistakenly believe the treatment to be painful itself. If you have a root canal treatment scheduled and are worried that it will be painful, take a look at this guide that can help you navigate some of the complicated elements of this procedure.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing infected tooth pulp from the mouth. The tooth pulp is the sensitive inner core that lies under the hard outer shell of the teeth. When this pulp becomes infected, it can lead to a variety of issues and cause a patient a significant amount of pain and discomfort.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Nowadays, root canal treatment is rarely painful. This is because before any treatment is performed on you, your dentist will administer an anesthetic to reduce any pain or discomfort you might feel.
In the case of a root canal, there is a strong chance that you will be given local rather than general anesthetic. A local anesthetic will numb the immediate area surrounding your target tooth without impacting the rest of the body. This type of anesthesia is, in general, much less taxing than the more serious general anesthesia.
Signs of a Root Canal
There are certain symptoms you can stay aware of that indicate that you might be developing a root canal. Keep note of the following:
- Tooth pain
- Swollen jaw
- Swollen gums
- Pressure sensations on a tooth
- Loose tooth
- Discoloration on a tooth
Other less obvious signs can indicate that you are in need of root canal treatment. Consistent dental checkups can help you and your dentist stay on top of any symptoms that might be consistent with the development of a root canal.
What Occurs During Root Canal Treatment?
Prior to any actual work being done, your dentist will take some dental X-rays of your afflicted tooth. These images will help them assess the level and nature of the infection of the pulp within the tooth. Other tests may be performed to give them a better image of the issue. After this, the general steps of a root canal treatment are as follows:
- Anesthesia is applied to numb the tooth that is to be extracted, as well as the surrounding areas.
- A thin piece of rubber is placed over your infected tooth and the surrounding gums. This is also known as a rubber dam and is used to keep your tooth dry during the root canal treatment.
- A hole is drilled in your tooth’s crown in order to access the tooth pulp.
- Dental instruments are employed to remove any infected nerves, blood vessels, and tissues inside the tooth. Whatever infected tooth pulp is cleared.
- After fully removing the infected pulp of the teeth, the empty chamber of the tooth is filled with a rubbery dental material known as gutta-percha.
- The tooth is sealed with a temporary dental filling.
- Finally, a dental crown is applied. This allows your impacted tooth to function as normal. Because dental crowns are custom-fitted, it may be a few weeks from the rest of your procedure before you are able to receive your own.
Recovering from Root Canal Treatment
Most individuals will recover fully from a root canal treatment within a week. There are a few things you can do to ensure that you recover fully and efficiently. Take heed of the following precautions to take:
- Avoid chewing on tough foods following your treatment
- Take a break from smoking and drinking following your root canal
- Stay consistent with brushing and flossing following your root canal
- Use antibacterial mouthwash frequently
- Think about eating only soft and easily digestible foods in the first few days
Your dentist may have additional advice for you following the completion of your procedure. Ensuring that you follow this advice accurately is the best way to keep your recovery period brief and successful.
The Best Dentist in Yucaipa
Shodhan Dentistry of Yucaipa is completely dedicated to offering top-notch dental work to patients in Yucaipa and beyond. If you’re interested in discussing an upcoming root canal treatment with a consummate professional dentist, contact our office today to discuss your options.